Somerset County senior centers and libraries offer cool respite on hot summer days

On hot summer days like today, where heat indexes are expected to climb to the 90s and thunderstorms are possible, the Somerset County Board of Chosen Freeholders encourages residents to be aware of their health and safety.

People suffer heat-related illness when their bodies are unable to compensate and properly cool themselves. The body normally cools itself by sweating, but sometimes that isn't enough. In extreme heat conditions, seek air conditioning, avoid exertion if possible and drink water regularly to stay hydrated.

Individuals age 65 and older are more prone to heat stress than younger people because they aren’t able to adjust to temperature changes as well. Adult seniors also are more likely to have a medical condition or take medications that impair the body’s ability to regulate its temperature.

The Board of Chosen Freeholders invites residents age 60 and above to enjoy the seven air-conditioned facilities operated by the county Office on Aging and Disability Services. Open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., the senior centers offer cool respite and a variety of educational, recreational and entertaining activities. (See senior center list below.)

Other locations to beat the heat include public libraries. For a list of locations and hours of libraries that are part of the Somerset County Library System, visit somerset.lib.nj.us/locationlist.html

A list of all public libraries in New Jersey can be found at: publiclibraries.com/newjersey.htm. Keep in mind that these locations will be closed for the Fourth of July holiday.

For more information on what you can do to prevent heat-related illness, visit the CDC website or ready.gov/heat. Information about staying safe during thunderstorms and lightening can be found at http://www.ready.gov/thunderstorms-lightning.

For more information about county-operated Senior Centers, contact one of the centers listed below or call the Somerset County Office on Aging and Disability Services toll free at 1-888-747-1122.